Health Topics A-Z

What Are Pregnancy Discomforts?

Most pregnancies are medically uneventful and end happily in the successful birth of a healthy baby. But you still have 40 weeks to wonder whether certain physical and emotional discomforts are serious enough for medical intervention or are minor problems that you can deal with on your own.

Your first - and most important - step is signing up for a comprehensive program of prenatal care with a doctor who specializes in pregnancy and childbirth. You and your developing baby will get routine monitoring to make sure everything is going well - and if it isn't, appropriate care for any problems. You and your husband or partner will get confidence-building information about each stage of your pregnancy, including labor, childbirth and the care and feeding of a newborn.

A pregnant woman is as likely as anyone to get minor illnesses, but when you're pregnant you should always keep your doctor informed so you get proper treatment. Your main responsibility is keeping yourself and your baby well nourished and cared for. That means you need a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, plenty of rest and a stress-free environment. Above all, don't smoke or use alcohol while you're pregnant, and avoid all drugs except those prescribed by your doctor.